Interactive display device

ABSTRACT

The invention provides a bathroom fixture in the form of an electronic mirror with a touchlessly operated fluid dispenser. The device provides visual cues to assist in the touchless operation thereof.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/179,510 filed Nov. 2, 2018 and also claims priority to U.S.Pat. No. 10,178,928 filed Feb. 3, 2017 and claims the benefit of 35U.S.C. 120.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to touchless devices, especially devices fordispensing fluids such as water, hand soap and hand sanitizer. Moreparticularly, the invention provides a touchless device that providesvisual cues to assist in the touchless operation thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Regular hand cleaning is important to reduce the spread of infectiousdiseases. To facilitate hand washing, most bathrooms are equipped with awater faucet and sink, together with a soap dispenser. These aretypically installed below a bathroom mirror.

Manually operated faucets and soap dispensers may become contaminated bya user's hands, and thus provide a route for the spread of infectiousagents. To avoid this, many public bathrooms use touchlessly operatedfaucets and soap dispensers. These are generally equipped with proximitysensors, and are configured to dispense water or soap when a user placeshis or her hands near the appropriate sensor.

Touchlessly operated hand cleaning equipment may, however, be difficultto operate, especially for individuals who are unfamiliar with theequipment. For example, an individual who is accustomed to manuallyoperated faucets and soap dispensers may search in vain for a manualcontrol, thereby contaminating the equipment with his hands. Theindividual may then leave the bathroom without washing his hands,further increasing the risk of spreading infectious agents. This problemmay be particularly acute for those visiting from a foreign country, whomay be accustomed to hand cleaning equipment having a significantlydifferent design and mode of operation.

The present inventors have appreciated that the hand cleaning experiencecould be improved by providing a hand cleaning device that provideseasily understood visual cues to assist users in the touchless operationthereof.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To at least partially overcome some of the disadvantages of previouslyknown devices, in one aspect, the invention provides an enhancedbathroom mirror that incorporates a touchlessly operated fluiddispenser. The mirror comprises an electronic display that providesvisual cues to assist in touchless operation of the dispenser. Forexample, the mirror may display icons representing different fluids thatcan be dispensed, such as water, soap, or hand sanitizer, together withanimated graphics showing hand gestures that are used to select a fluidfor dispensing. The mirror may also display videos that show how tooperate the device.

The device may incorporate a light guide, which provides a path of lightdirecting a user to place his hands below a dispenser outlet to receivethe selected fluid. The light guide may, for example, comprise one ormore LED lights arranged between the mirror and the dispenser outlet.The present inventors have appreciated that by providing these easilyunderstood visual cues, the fluid dispenser can be readily operated byindividuals who have never used it before.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a bathroom fixture whichcombines the functions of a mirror, a water faucet, and a soapdispenser, in a single, easy to use device. By incorporating multiplefunctions in one device having an intuitive, touchless mode ofoperation, the invention simplifies and enhances the hand cleaningexperience.

In another aspect, the present invention provides an interactive displaydevice incorporating additional visual cues to assist in the touchlessoperation thereof. For example, some embodiments of the invention useone or more sensors to track the location of a user's hand relative tothe electronic display, and incorporate a computer system that displaysa movable indicator on the electronic display which tracks the movementof the user's hand.

The movable indicator is designed to provide intuitive feedback whichguides users in the touchless operation of the device. For example, thecomputer system may be configured to modify a visual characteristic ofthe movable indicator, such as its size or color, based on the distanceof the user's hand from the electronic display. As the user's hand ismoved towards the electronic display, the changing visual characteristicprovides immediately recognizable feedback to the user. The user thusunderstands that the device is detecting and tracking his or her hand,and that the electronic display therefore does not need to be touched inorder to be operated. This further helps to avoid unnecessary contactwith the device and the associated risk of contamination and spread ofdisease. The interactive display device may incorporate an optical orelectrical mirror display, and may be used to control a water faucet andsoap dispenser. Alternatively, the device could be used for any otherpurpose for which touchless operation may be desired, such ascontrolling a television or a general purpose computer.

In a further aspect, the invention provides an interactive mirrordisplay device that incorporates a one-way mirror, with an electronicdisplay arranged behind the one-way mirror. The electronic display maybe configured to display a graphic element, such as a selectable iconfor dispensing water or soap, which is visible through the one-waymirror. The icons may be selected touchlessly by moving the user's handto a position, in front of the one-way mirror, that is near the icon tobe selected. This combination of a one-way mirror with an electronicdisplay permits the device to provide an optical reflection. The devicecan thus function as a mirror without requiring the cameras and computerresources that would be necessary to electronically produce amirror-like image.

In some embodiments, the electronic display is spaced from the one-waymirror, so that the graphic elements appears, to a user facing theone-way mirror, to be located behind the mirror. Because the graphicelement is located behind the mirror, it is apparent to the user thatthe graphic element cannot be physically touched, and the user is thusdiscouraged from touching the surface of the mirror. Furthermore, whenthe user's hand is spaced from the mirror at an appropriate location,the reflection of the user's hand appears to contact or intersect withthe graphic element behind the mirror. The user is thus intuitivelyencouraged to place his or her hand at this location, furtherdiscouraging unnecessary contact with the mirror.

Accordingly, in one aspect the present invention resides in a fluiddispensing device comprising: an electronic mirror configured to displaya reflection in conjunction with computer generated graphics; a cameraconfigured to capture images of a user in front of the mirror; acomputer configured to receive the images captured by the camera, anddetermine the position of the user's hand based on the images; areservoir for containing hand cleaner fluid to be dispensed; a watersupply valve, connected to a water supply, for controlling a flow ofwater to be dispensed; a dispenser outlet for discharge of the handcleaner fluid and the water; a discharge mechanism operable to dischargean allotment of the hand cleaner fluid from the dispenser outlet whenactivated; and a light guide running between the mirror and thedispenser outlet; wherein the electronic mirror is configured to displaya graphic representing the hand cleaner fluid and a graphic representingthe water; wherein the computer is configured to identify the graphicrepresenting the hand cleaner fluid or the graphic representing thewater as a selected graphic based on the position of the user's handrelative to the graphic representing the hand cleaner fluid and thegraphic representing the water; wherein the electronic mirror and thelight guide are configured to provide a path of light between theselected graphic and the dispenser outlet; and wherein the computer isconfigured to activate the discharge mechanism when the graphicrepresenting the hand cleaner fluid is selected, and to open the watersupply valve when the graphic representing the water is selected.

In another aspect, the present invention resides in an interactivedisplay device comprising: an electronic display configured to displaygraphics; at least one sensor configured to detect an object placed inproximity to the electronic display; and a computer system configured todetermine a location of the object relative to the electronic displaybased on detection data received from the at least one sensor; wherein,when the location of the object is determined to be within a preselectedzone, the computer system is configured to display a movable indicatoron the electronic display at a position that tracks the location of theobject relative to the electronic display; and wherein the computersystem is configured to modify a visual characteristic of the movableindicator based on a distance of the object from the electronic display.

In a further aspect, the present invention resides in an interactivemirror display device comprising: a one-way mirror; an electronicdisplay arranged behind the one-way mirror, and configured to display agraphic element that is visible through the one-way mirror; at least onesensor configured to detect an object placed in proximity to the one-waymirror; and a computer system configured to determine a location of theobject relative to the one-way mirror based on detection data receivedfrom the at least one sensor; wherein the computer system is configuredto perform an action when the location of the object is determined to bewithin a preselected zone in proximity to the graphic element.

In a 1st configuration, the present invention provides an interactivedisplay device comprising:

an electronic display configured to display graphics including at leastone graphic element;

at least one sensor configured to detect an object placed in proximityto the electronic display; and

a computer system configured to determine a location of the objectrelative to the electronic display based on detection data received fromthe at least one sensor;

wherein the computer system is configured to perform an action when thelocation of the object is determined to be within a preselected zone inproximity to the graphic element.

In a 2^(nd) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive mirror display device according to the 1^(st) configurationincluding a one-way mirror;

the electronic display arranged behind the one-way mirror, andconfigured to display the graphic element visible through the one-waymirror.

In a 3^(rd) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive mirror display device according to the 2^(nd) configurationwherein the electronic display is spaced from the one-way mirror so thatthe graphic element appears to a user facing the one-way mirror, to belocated a preselected distance behind the one-way mirror; and

wherein the preselected zone includes a position where a reflected imageof the object, as seen by the user facing the one-way mirror, appears tocontact or intersect with the graphic element.

In a 4^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive mirror display device according to the 1^(st), 2^(nd) or3^(rd) configuration wherein the computer system is configured to modifya visual characteristic of the graphic element when it is determinedthat the object is located at the position.

In a 5^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive mirror display device according to any one of the 1^(st) to4^(th) configurations wherein, when the location of the object isdetermined to be within the preselected zone, the computer system isconfigured to display a movable indicator on the electronic display at aposition that tracks the location of the object relative to theelectronic display.

In a 6^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive mirror display device according to the 5^(th) configurationwherein the computer system is configured to modify a visualcharacteristic of the movable indicator based on a distance of theobject from the electronic display.

In a 7^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to the 5^(th) or 6^(th)configuration wherein the computer system is configured to cause themovable indicator to disappear from the electronic display when theobject is moved out of the preselected zone, and to reappear when theobject is returned to the preselected zone.

In an 8^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to the 5^(th), 6^(th) or 7^(th)configuration wherein the computer system is configured to increase asize of the movable indicator when the object is moved closer to theelectronic display, and to decrease the size of the movable indicatorwhen the object is moved away from the electronic display.

In a 9^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 6^(th) to 8^(th)configurations wherein the movable indicator comprises a simulatedthree-dimensional distortion; and

wherein the computer system is configured to increase a degree ofdistortion of the movable indicator when the object is moved closer tothe electronic display, and to decrease the degree of distortion of themovable indicator when the object is moved away from the electronicdisplay.

In a 10^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 5^(th) to 9^(th)configurations wherein the movable indicator comprises an array ofgraphic elements, and the computer system is configured to increase anumber of said graphic elements when the object is moved closer to theelectronic display, and to decrease the number of said graphic elementswhen the object is moved away from the electronic display.

In an 11^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to the 10^(th) configurationwherein each of the graphic elements has a size, and the size of thegraphic elements is greatest at a central area of the array; and

wherein the computer system is configured to increase the size of thegraphic elements when the object is moved closer to the electronicdisplay, and to decrease the size the graphic elements when the objectis moved away from the electronic display.

In a 12^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 1^(st) to 11^(th)configurations wherein, when the location of the object is determined tobe within a preselected distance of the electronic display, the computersystem is configured to produce an alert for discouraging a user fromtouching the electronic display.

In a 13^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 5^(th) to 12^(th)configurations wherein the computer system is configured to display aninteraction element on the electronic display, and to perform an actionwhen the movable indicator is positioned on or in proximity to theinteraction element.

In a 14^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 1^(st) to 13^(th)configurations wherein the object is a user's hand.

In a 15^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 7^(th) to 14^(th)configurations wherein the computer system is configured to control amaterial dispenser,

the preselected zone comprises a material preselected zone;

wherein the computer system is configured to display a selectablematerial icon on the electronic display;

wherein the computer system is configured to activate the materialdispenser to dispense material when the object is determined to bewithin the material preselected zone in proximity to the selectable handcleaner icon.

In a 16^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 1^(st) to 14^(th)configurations including:

a material dispenser outlet for discharge of a material;

a material dispenser operable when activated to discharge the materialout the material dispenser outlet; and

a light guide running between the display and the material dispenseroutlet;

wherein the display is configured to display a graphic representing thematerial;

the computer is configured to identify the graphic representing thematerial as a selected graphic based on the position of the objectrelative to the graphic representing the material;

the display and the light guide are configured to provide a path oflight between the selected graphic and the material dispenser outlet;and

the computer is configured to activate the material discharge mechanismwhen the graphic representing the material dispenser is the selectedgraphic.

In a 17^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device of the 15^(th) configuration in combinationwith the material dispenser, wherein the material dispenser has amaterial discharge outlet for discharge of the material,

wherein the object is a first hand of a person,

the material outlet located relative to the electronic display such thatwhen the location of the first hand is determined to be within apreselected zone in proximity to the graphic element, a second hand ofthe person is capable of being placed at the material discharge outletto receive material discharged by the material dispenser.

In an 18^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to the 17^(th) configurationincluding:

a material dispenser outlet for discharge of a material;

a material dispenser operable when activated to discharge the materialout the material dispenser outlet; and

a light guide running between the display and the material dispenseroutlet;

wherein the display is configured to display a graphic representing thematerial;

the computer is configured to identify the graphic representing thematerial as a selected graphic based on the position of the objectrelative to the graphic representing the material;

the display and the light guide are configured to provide a path oflight between the selected graphic and the material dispenser outlet;and

the computer is configured to activate the material discharge mechanismwhen the graphic representing the material dispenser is the selectedgraphic.

In a 19^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 1^(st) to 14^(th)configurations in combination with a plurality of material dispensers,wherein each material dispenser has a material discharge outlet fordischarge of a respective material,

wherein the object is a first hand of a person,

each material outlet located relative to the electronic display suchthat when the location of the first hand is determined to be within apreselected zone in proximity to the graphic element, a second hand ofthe person is capable of being placed at each material discharge outletto receive respective material discharged by each material dispenser.

In a 20^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to the 19^(th) configurationwherein the display is configured to display a graphic representing thematerial including:

a plurality of light guides with one light guide running between thegraphic representing each material and each respective dispenser outlet;

the computer is configured to identify the graphic representing eachmaterial as a selected graphic based on the position of the objectrelative to the graphic representing the material;

the display and each light guide are configured to provide a path oflight between the selected graphic and the respective material dispenseroutlet; and

the computer is configured to activate each material discharge mechanismwhen the graphic representing the respective material dispenser is theselected graphic.

In a 21^(st) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device of the 15^(th) to 20^(th) configurationswherein the material dispenser is selected from the group of a waterdispenser, a hand cleaner dispenser, a hand lotion dispenser and adrying air dispenser.

In a 22^(nd) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 1^(st) to 14^(th)configurations wherein the computer system is configured to control ahand cleaner dispenser,

the preselected zone comprises a hand cleaner preselected zone;

wherein the computer system is configured to display a selectable handcleaner icon on the electronic display;

wherein the computer system is configured to activate the hand cleanerdispenser to dispense hand cleaner when the object is determined to bewithin the hand cleaner preselected zone in proximity to the selectablehand cleaner icon.

In a 23^(rd) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device of the 22^(nd) configuration in combinationwith the hand cleaner dispenser, wherein the hand cleaner has a handcleaner discharge outlet for discharge of the hand cleaner,

wherein the object is a first hand of a person,

the hand cleaner outlet located relative to the electronic display suchthat when the location of the first hand is determined to be within apreselected zone in proximity to the graphic element, a second hand ofthe person is capable of being placed underneath the hand cleanerdischarge outlet to receive hand cleaner discharged by the hand cleanerdispenser.

In a 24^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 1^(st) to14^(th), 22^(nd) and 23^(rd) configurations wherein:

the computer system is configured to control a water dispenser;

the graphic element comprises a selectable water icon and thepreselected zone comprises a water preselected zone;

the computer system is configured to display a selectable water icon onthe electronic display, and

the computer system is configured to activate the water dispenser todispense water when the object is determined to be within the waterpreselected zone.

In a 25^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device of the 24^(th) configuration in combinationwith the water dispenser,

wherein the water dispenser has a water discharge outlet for dischargeof the water, and

the object is a first hand of a person,

the water discharge outlet located relative to the electronic displaysuch that when the location of the first hand is determined to be withina preselected zone in proximity to the graphic element, a second hand ofthe person is capable of being placed underneath the water dischargeoutlet to receive water discharged by the water dispenser.

In a 26^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 1^(st) to 25^(th)configurations wherein the electronic display also displays to a user infront of the electronic display an image of the user in front of theelectronic display.

In a 27^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 1^(st) to 26^(th)configurations including a camera configured to capture images of theuser in front of the mirror;

wherein the computer is configured to receive the images captured by thecamera, and determine the position of the object based on the images.

In a 28^(th) configuration, the present invention provides a materialdispensing device comprising:

an electronic display configured to display to a user in front of theelectronic display computer generated graphics;

at least one sensor configured to detect an object placed in proximityto the electronic display;

a computer system configured to determine a location of the objectrelative to the electronic display based on detection data received fromthe at least one sensor,

a material dispenser outlet for discharge of a material;

a material dispenser operable to discharge the material when activated;and

a light guide running between the mirror and the material dispenseroutlet;

wherein the electronic display is configured to display a graphicrepresenting the material;

wherein the computer is configured to identify the graphic representingthe material as a selected graphic based on the position of the objectrelative to the graphic representing the material;

wherein the electronic mirror and the light guide are configured toprovide a path of light between the selected graphic and the dispenseroutlet; and

wherein the computer is configured to activate the material dischargemechanism when the graphic representing the material dispenser is theselected graphic.

In a 29^(th) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device of the 28^(th) configuration wherein the electronicdisplay also displays to the user in front of the electronic display animage of the user.

In a 30^(th) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device of the 28^(th) or 29^(th) configuration wherein thematerial dispenser comprises a plurality of material dispensers,

wherein each material dispenser has a respective material dischargeoutlet for discharge of a respective material,

wherein the object is a first hand of a person,

each material outlet located relative to the electronic display suchthat when the location of the first hand is determined to be within apreselected zone in proximity to the graphic element, a second hand ofthe person is capable of being placed at each material discharge outletto receive respective material discharged by each material dispenser.

In a 31^(st) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device of the 30^(th) configuration wherein thematerial is selected from the group of water, a hand cleaner, a handlotion and drying air

In a 32^(nd) configuration, the present invention provides aninteractive display device comprising:

an electronic display configured to display graphics;

at least one sensor configured to detect an object placed in proximityto the electronic display; and

a computer system configured to determine a location of the objectrelative to the electronic display based on detection data received fromthe at least one sensor;

wherein, when the location of the object is determined to be within apreselected zone, the computer system is configured to display a movableindicator on the electronic display at a position that tracks thelocation of the object relative to the electronic display; and

wherein the computer system is configured to modify a visualcharacteristic of the movable indicator based on a distance of theobject from the electronic display.

In a 33^(rd) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to the 32^(nd) configurationwherein the computer system is configured to cause the movable indicatorto disappear from the electronic display when the object is moved out ofthe preselected zone, and to reappear when the object is returned to thepreselected zone.

In a 34^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to the 32^(nd) or 33^(rd)configuration wherein the computer system is configured to increase asize of the movable indicator when the object is moved closer to theelectronic display, and to decrease the size of the movable indicatorwhen the object is moved away from the electronic display.

In a 35^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to the 32^(nd) or 33^(rd) whereinthe movable indicator comprises an array of graphic elements, and thecomputer system is configured to increase a number of said graphicelements when the object is moved closer to the electronic display, andto decrease the number of said graphic elements when the object is movedaway from the electronic display.

In a 36^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to the 35^(th) configurationwherein each of the graphic elements has a size, and the size of thegraphic elements is greatest at a central area of the array; and

wherein the computer system is configured to increase the size of thegraphic elements when the object is moved closer to the electronicdisplay, and to decrease the size the graphic elements when the objectis moved away from the electronic display.

In a 37^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 32^(nd) to36^(th) configurations wherein, when the location of the object isdetermined to be within a preselected distance of the electronicdisplay, the computer system is configured to produce an alert fordiscouraging a user from touching the electronic display.

In a 38^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 32^(nd) to37^(th) configurations wherein the computer system is configured todisplay an interaction element on the electronic display, and to performan action when the movable indicator is positioned on or in proximity tothe interaction element.

In a 39^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 32^(nd) to38^(th) configurations wherein the computer system is configured tocontrol a water dispenser and a hand cleaner dispenser;

wherein the computer system is configured to display a selectable watericon and a selectable hand cleaner icon on the electronic display;

wherein the computer system is configured to activate the waterdispenser to dispense water when the movable indicator is positioned onor in proximity to the selectable water icon; and

wherein the computer system is configured to activate the hand cleanerdispenser to dispense hand cleaner when the movable indicator ispositioned on or in proximity to the selectable hand cleaner icon.

In a 40^(th) configuration, the present invention provides theinteractive display device according to any one of the 32^(nd) to39^(th) configurations wherein the movable indicator comprises asimulated three-dimensional distortion; and

wherein the computer system is configured to increase a degree ofdistortion of the movable indicator when the object is moved closer tothe electronic display, and to decrease the degree of distortion of themovable indicator when the object is moved away from the electronicdisplay.

In a 41^(st) configuration, the present invention provides a materialdispensing device comprising:

an electronic display configured to display to a user in front of theelectronic display computer generated graphics;

at least one sensor configured to detect an object placed in proximityto the electronic display;

a computer system configured to determine a position of the objectrelative to the electronic display based on detection data received fromthe at least one sensor,

at least one material dispenser outlet,

at least one material dispenser operable when activated to discharge theat least one material from at least one material dispenser outlet; and

wherein the electronic display is configured to display as the computergenerated graphics at least one graphic element representing the leastone material;

wherein the computer system is configured to activate the at least onematerial discharge mechanism when the position of the object isdetermined to be within a preselected zone in proximity to the at leastone graphic element.

In a 42^(nd) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to the 41^(st) configuration wherein:

the at least one material includes a first material,

the at least one material dispenser outlet includes a first materialdispenser outlet,

the at least one material dispenser includes a first material dispenseroperable when activated to discharge the first material from the firstmaterial dispenser outlet;

wherein the electronic display is configured to display as the computergenerated graphics as the at least one graphic element a first graphicelement representing the first material;

wherein the computer system is configured to activate the first materialdischarge mechanism when the position of the object is determined to bewithin a preselected zone in proximity to the first graphic element.

In a 43^(rd) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to the 42^(nd) configuration wherein:

the at least one material includes a second material,

the at least one material dispenser outlet includes a second materialdispenser outlet,

the at least one material dispenser includes a second material dispenseroperable when activated to discharge the second material from the secondmaterial dispenser outlet;

wherein the electronic display is configured to display as the computergenerated graphics as the at least one graphic element a second graphicelement representing the second material;

wherein the computer system is configured to activate the secondmaterial discharge mechanism when the position of the object isdetermined to be within a preselected zone in proximity to the secondgraphic element.

In a 44^(th) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to the 43^(rd) configuration wherein:

the at least one material includes a third material,

the at least one material dispenser outlet includes a third materialdispenser outlet,

the at least one material dispenser includes a third material dispenseroperable when activated to discharge the third material from the thirdmaterial dispenser outlet;

wherein the electronic display is configured to display as the computergenerated graphics as the at least one graphic element a third graphicelement representing the third material; and

the computer system is configured to activate the third materialdischarge mechanism when the position of the object is determined to bewithin a preselected zone in proximity to the third graphic element.

In a 45^(th) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to any one of the 41^(st) to 44^(th)configurations wherein the at least one material is a material capableof flowing selected from the group of water, a first hand cleaner,second hand cleaner, a hand lotion and drying air.

In a 46^(th) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to the 43^(rd) or 44^(th) configurationwherein:

the second material comprises a second hand cleaning fluid,

the second material dispenser comprising a second hand cleaning fluidreservoir containing the hand cleaning fluid and a second hand cleaningfluid pump operable to discharge the second hand cleaning fluid from thesecond hand cleaning fluid reservoir out the second material dispenseroutlet for the second hand cleaning fluid.

In a 47^(th) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to the 43^(rd) or 44^(th) configurationwherein:

the second material comprises water,

the second material dispenser a water supply supplying the water and awater valve controlling the discharge of the water from the secondmaterial dispenser outlet.

In a 48^(th) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to any one of the 42^(nd) to 44^(th)configurations and 46^(th) and 47^(th) configurations wherein:

the first material comprises a first hand cleaning fluid,

the first material dispenser comprising a first hand cleaning fluidreservoir containing the hand cleaning fluid and a first hand cleaningfluid pump operable to discharge the first hand cleaning fluid from thefirst hand cleaning fluid reservoir out the first material dispenseroutlet for the first hand cleaning fluid.

In a 49^(th) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to any one of the 41^(st) to 48^(th)configurations wherein:

the object is a first hand of the user,

the at least one material outlet located relative to the electronicdisplay such that when the position of the first hand is determined tobe within the preselected zone in proximity to the at least one graphicelement a second hand of the user is capable of being placed at the atleast one material discharge outlet to receive the at least one materialdischarged by the at least one material dispenser.

In a 50^(th) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to any one of the 41^(st) to 49^(th)configurations including:

an upwardly open basin,

the basin disposed below the electronic display,

the at least one material dispenser outlet located for discharge of theat least one respective material into the basin with space between theat least one material dispenser outlet and the basin for the user'shands to be placed under the at least one material dispenser outlet toreceive the at least one material dispensed.

In a 51^(st) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to any one of the 41^(st) to 50^(th)configurations wherein:

the computer is configured to identify the at least one graphic elementrepresenting the at least one material as a selected graphic based onthe position of the object relative to the at least one graphic elementrepresenting the at least one material; and

the computer is configured to activate the at least one materialdischarge mechanism when the at least one graphic element representingthe at least one material dispenser is the selected graphic and thelocation of the object is determined to be within the preselected zonein proximity to the at least one graphic element.

In a 52^(nd) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to any one of the 41^(st) to 51^(st)configurations including:

at least one light guide running between the electronic display and theat least one material dispenser outlet;

wherein the electronic display and the at least one light guide areconfigured to provide at least one path of light between the selectedgraphic and the at least one dispenser outlet.

In a 53^(rd) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to the 52^(nd) configuration wherein the atleast one path of light between the selected graphic and the at leastone dispenser outlet is illuminated as a function of when the positionof the object is determined to be within the preselected zone inproximity to the at least one graphic element.

In a 54^(th) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to any one of the 41^(st) to 53^(rd)configurations including an imaging device that displays to the user infront of the electronic display an image of the user.

In a 55^(th) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to the 54^(th) configuration wherein theimaging device is selected from the group consisting of:

(a) the electronic display which displays to the user in front of theelectronic display the image of the user as an electronic image of theuser, and

(b) a one-way mirror that displays to the user in front of theelectronic display the image of the user as a reflected image of theuser with the electronic display is arranged behind the one-way mirror,and configured to display the computer generated graphics visiblethrough the one-way mirror.

In a 56^(th) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to the 54^(th) configuration wherein theimaging device comprises an electronic display which displays to theuser in front of the electronic display the image of the user as anelectronic image of the user.

In a 57^(th) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to the 54^(th) configuration wherein theimaging device comprises a one-way mirror that displays to the user infront of the electronic display the image of the user as a reflectedimage of the user;

the electronic display is arranged behind the one-way mirror, andconfigured to display the computer generated graphics visible throughthe one-way mirror.

In a 58^(th) configuration, the present invention provides the materialdispensing device according to the 17^(th) configuration wherein theelectronic display is spaced from the one-way mirror so that the atleast one graphic element appears to a user facing the one-way mirror,to be located a preselected distance behind the one-way mirror; and

wherein the preselected zone includes a position where the reflectedimage of the object, as seen by the user facing the one-way mirror,appears to contact or intersect with the at least one graphic element.

In a 59^(th) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement for dispensing two fluids comprising:

a discharge spout,

a first material dispensing mechanism for dispensing a first materialfrom a first discharge outlet on the spout at a first location,

a second material dispensing mechanism for dispensing a second materialfrom a second discharge outlet on the spout at second location on thespout different than the first location,

a sensor arrangement to sense the position of a user's hand relative tothe spout and the first location and the second location,

a controller,

the controller activating dispensing from the first outlet when theuser's hand is sensed proximate to the first outlet and activatingdispensing from the second outlet when the user's hand is sensedproximate to the second outlet.

In a 60^(th) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement according to the 59^(th) configuration whereinthe spout extends to a distal end, proximate the distal end, the spoutis elongate extending along a longitudinal and presents a right sidesurface, a left side surface and a bottom surface,

the first discharge outlet provided on a first surface selected from thegroup consisting of the right side surface, the left side surface andthe bottom surface,

the second discharge outlet provided on a second surface selected fromthe right side surface, the left side surface and the bottom surfacethat is not the first surface.

In a 61^(st) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement according to the 59^(th) or 60^(th) configurationincluding:

a first visual indicia for the first discharge outlet that is visuallyapparent to a user and identifies the first location of the firstdischarge outlet,

a second visual indicia for the second discharge outlet that is visuallyapparent to a user, identifies the second location of the seconddischarge outlet and is visually different than the first visual indiciathat the user can distinguish between the second visual indicia and thefirst visual indicia.

In a 62^(nd) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement according to the 61^(st) configuration including:

a visual display visible to a user in front of the spout,

the visual display including a first display indicia activated when thecontroller is dispensing the first material, and a second displayindicia activated when the controller is dispensing the second material,

the first display indicia having a first shared visual characteristicwith the first visual indicia such that a user associates the firstdisplay indicia with the first visual indicia, and

the second display indicia having a second shared visual characteristicwith the second visual indicia such that a user associates the seconddisplay indicia with the second visual indicia,

the second display indicia visually different than the first displayindicia such that the user can distinguish between the second displayindicia second and the first display indicia.

In a 63^(rd) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement according to the 62^(nd) configuration wherein:

the first shared visual characteristic includes a first colour, and

the second shared visual characteristic includes a second colourdifferent than the first colour.

In a 64^(th) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement according to the 62^(nd) or 63^(rd) configurationwherein:

the first shared visual characteristic includes a first shape, and

the second shared visual characteristic includes a second shapedifferent than the first shape.

In a 65^(th) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement according to the 61^(st), 62^(nd) or 64^(th)configuration wherein the visual display is on the distal end the spout.

In a 66^(th) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement according to any one of the 59^(th) to 65^(th)configurations wherein the sensor arrangement includes a time of flightsensor.

In a 67^(th) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement according to any one of the 59^(th) to 65^(th)configurations wherein the sensor arrangement includes a first time offlight to sense the position of a user's hand relative to the firstlocation and a second time of flight to sense the position of a user'shand relative to the second location.

In a 68^(th) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement according to the 58^(th) configuration wherein:

the spout extends to a distal end, proximate the distal end, the spoutis elongate extending along a longitudinal,

the first discharge outlet provided on the spout proximate the distalend, and

the second discharge outlet is provided on the spout spacedlongitudinally rearward from the first discharge outlet.

In a 69^(th) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement according to the 60^(th) configuration wherein:

the first discharge outlet provided on the spout proximate the distalend, and

the second discharge outlet is provided on the spout spacedlongitudinally rearward from the first discharge outlet.

In a 70^(th) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement according to the 59^(th) or 60^(th) configurationincluding:

a third material dispensing mechanism for dispensing a third materialfrom a third discharge outlet on the spout at third location on thespout different than the first location and different than the secondlocation,

the sensor arrangement sensing the position of a user's hand relative tothe spout and the third location,

the controller activating dispensing from the third outlet when theuser's hand is sensed proximate to the third location.

In a 71^(st) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement according to the 70^(th) configuration including:

a first visual indicia for the first discharge outlet that is visuallyapparent to a user and identifies the first location of the firstdischarge outlet,

a second visual indicia for the second discharge outlet that is visuallyapparent to a user, identifies the second location of the seconddischarge outlet and is visually different than the first visual indiciathat the user can distinguish between the second visual indicia and thefirst visual indicia,

a third visual indicia for the third discharge outlet that is visuallyapparent to a user, identifies the third location of the third dischargeoutlet and is visually different from the first visual indicia and thesecond visual indicia that the user can distinguish between the thirdvisual indicia and the first visual indicia and between the third visualindicia and the second visual indicia.

In a 72^(nd) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement according to the 70^(th) or 71^(st) configurationwherein the spout extends to a distal end, proximate the distal end, thespout is elongate extending along a longitudinal and presents a rightside surface, a left side surface and a bottom surface,

the first discharge outlet provided on a first surface selected from thegroup consisting of the right side surface, the left side surface andthe bottom surface,

the second discharge outlet provided on a second surface selected fromthe right side surface, the left side surface and the bottom surfacethat is not the first surface,

the third discharge outlet provided on third surface selected from theright side surface, the left side surface and the bottom surface that isnot the first surface and is not the second surface.

In a 73^(rd) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement according to the 70^(th) or 71^(st) configurationwherein:

the spout extends to a distal end, proximate the distal end, the spoutis elongate extending along a longitudinal,

the first discharge outlet provided on the spout proximate the distalend, and

the second discharge outlet is provided on the spout spacedlongitudinally rearward from the first discharge outlet.

In a 74^(th) configuration, the present invention provides a fluiddispensing arrangement according to the 72^(nd) configuration wherein:

the first discharge outlet provided on the spout proximate the distalend, and

the second discharge outlet is provided on the spout spacedlongitudinally rearward from the first discharge outlet.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further aspects and advantages of the invention will appear from thefollowing description taken together with the accompanying drawings, inwhich:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a fluid dispensing device inaccordance with a first preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 shows a schematic rear view of the fluid dispensing device shownin FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows a schematic bottom view of a fluid outlet of the fluiddispensing device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the fluid dispensing device of FIG.1, illustrating the hand gesture used to direct the device to dispensewater;

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the fluid dispensing device of FIG. 1dispensing water onto a user's hand;

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the fluid dispensing device of FIG.1, illustrating the hand gesture used to direct the device to dispensesoap;

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the fluid dispensing device of FIG. 1dispensing soap onto a user's hand;

FIG. 8 shows a front view of a fluid dispensing device in accordancewith a second preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the fluid dispensing device of FIG. 8dispensing water;

FIG. 10 shows a front view of the fluid dispensing device of FIG. 8dispensing water;

FIG. 11 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the fluid dispensingdevice of FIG. 8;

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a fluid dispensing device inaccordance with a third preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a fluid dispensing device inaccordance with a fourth preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of a fluid dispensing device inaccordance with a fifth preferred embodiment of the invention,illustrating the appearance of a movable indicator on an electronicdisplay of the device;

FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of the fluid dispensing device of FIG.14, illustrating the growth of the movable indicator as the user's handreaches an optimal distance from the electronic display;

FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of the fluid dispensing device of FIG.14, illustrating a change in position and visual appearance of themovable indicator as it tracks the user's hand to select a water icon;

FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of the fluid dispensing device of FIG.14, illustrating an alert that is displayed when the user's hand ismoved too close to the electronic display;

FIG. 18 shows a detailed view of the movable indicator of FIG. 15;

FIG. 19 shows a detailed view of the movable indicator of FIG. 16;

FIG. 20 shows a detailed view of a first alternative movable indicatorhaving a three-dimensional bulging effect, which may be used in place ofthe movable indicator of FIG. 18;

FIG. 21 shows an alternative set of graphics that may be displayed onthe electronic display of the fluid dispensing device of FIG. 14,including the first alternative movable indicator as shown in FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 shows a detailed view of a second alternative movable indicatorhaving a three-dimensional bulging effect, which may be used in place ofthe movable indicator of FIG. 18;

FIG. 23 shows a perspective view of a fluid dispensing device inaccordance with a sixth preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 24 shows a side view of the fluid dispensing device of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 shows a perspective view of a fluid dispensing device inaccordance with a seventh preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 26 shows a side view of the fluid dispensing device of FIG. 25;

FIG. 27 is a schematic side view of a fluid dispensing device inaccordance with a seventh preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 28 is a pictorial view of a spout of the fluid dispensing device ofFIG. 27 as seen from the right side and below;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the spout of FIG. 28 as seen from theleft side and below;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the spout of FIG. 28 as seen from thefront and above;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view the same as in FIG. 30 but showing a handdisposed below a water dispensing outlet on the spout;

FIG. 32 is a perspective view the same as FIG. 30 but showing a user'shand positioned below a soap dispensing outlet on the spout;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view the same as FIG. 30 but showing a user'shand positioned below a disinfectant fluid outlet on the spout;

FIG. 34 is a front view of a spout body shown in FIG. 28;

FIG. 35 is a pictorial view of a fluid dispensing device in accordancewith an eighth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 36 a pictorial view of a spout of the fluid dispensing device ofFIG. 35 as seen from the left side and below; and

FIG. 37 is a bottom view of the spout of FIG. 35.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference is first made to FIGS. 1 to 3, which show a fluid dispensingdevice 10 in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of theinvention. The device 10 includes an electronic mirror 12, two cameras14 positioned on either side of the mirror 12, and an outwardlyprojecting spout body 16 for dispensing fluid. The device 10 iswall-mounted over a sink 18.

As is best shown in FIG. 2, at the rear of the device there is provideda soap dispenser 20 and a hand sanitizer dispenser 22. The soapdispenser 20 and hand sanitizer dispenser 22 may, for example, have aconstruction similar to the dispensers disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.7,984,825 to Ophardt et al., issued Jul. 26, 2011, and in U.S. Pat. No.8,684,236 to Ophardt, issued Apr. 1, 2014, both of which areincorporated herein by reference.

The soap dispenser 20 has a reservoir containing soap 24, and anelectrically powered discharge mechanism operable to pump an allotmentof the soap 24 through a soap discharge line 26 and out a soap outlet 28upon activation. The hand sanitizer dispenser 22 likewise has areservoir containing hand sanitizer, and an electrically powereddischarge mechanism operable to pump an allotment of the hand sanitizerthrough a hand sanitizer discharge line 30 and out a hand sanitizeroutlet 32 upon activation. The soap discharge line 26 and the handsanitizer discharge line 30 pass from the rear of the device 10 into theoutwardly projecting spout body 16, with the soap outlet 28 and the handsanitizer outlet 32 positioned within a fluid outlet 34 of the spoutbody 16, as is shown in FIG. 3.

The device 10 also receives a supply of pressurized water 36 via a waterpipe 38 mounted at the rear of the device 10. An electronically operatedvalve mechanism 40 controls the flow of water 36 into the device. Whenthe valve 40 is open, water 36 flows through the spout body 16 and outthrough the fluid outlet 34.

A computer 42 is also mounted at the rear of the device 10, and controlsthe device's electronic components, including the discharge mechanism ofthe soap dispenser 20, the discharge mechanism of the hand sanitizerdispenser 22, the electronically operated valve mechanism 40, and theelectronic mirror 12. The computer 42 receives data from the cameras 14,as well as from a proximity sensor 44 mounted near the fluid outlet 34of the spout body 16. As will be described in more detail below, thecomputer 42 is operable to control the discharge of water 36, soap 24,and hand sanitizer from the fluid outlet 34 based on hand gestures thatare detected by the cameras 14 and/or proximity sensor 44. The computer42 is programmed to be capable of analyzing images captured by thecameras 14 to determine the three-dimensional position of a user's hand46 relative to the device.

The electronic mirror 12 is configured to provide a reflection that isoverlaid with additional computer generated images and information andmay, for example, have a similar construction to the digital mirrordescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,122,320 to Rowles et al., issued Sep. 1,2015, which is hereby incorporated by reference. The reflection may beelectronically generated based on images captured by the cameras 14.Alternatively, the mirror 12 may incorporate an optically reflectivesurface to provide a reflection. In some preferred embodiments of theinvention, the mirror 12 incorporates an organic light-emitting diode(OLED) for displaying images.

As shown in FIG. 1, the electronic mirror 12 displays a Graphical UserInterface (GUI) that includes icons representing each fluid that can bedispensed by the device 10, including a water icon 48, a soap icon 50,and a hand sanitizer icon 52. The mirror 12 can also display additionalimages, such as an animated hand icon 54 that is used to assist users intouchlessly operating the device 10.

The spout body 16 provides a conduit for transporting the fluids to bedispensed from the rear of the device 10 to a position over the sink 18where a user can easily reach his hand 46. A proximity sensor 44 ispositioned near the fluid outlet 34, and is configured to detect thepresence of the user's hand 46 below the outlet 34. This information iscommunicated to the computer 42, and is used to control the dispensingof fluids.

The spout body 16 furthermore incorporates a light guide 56 that runsalong the upper surface of the spout body 16 between the mirror 12 andthe fluid outlet 34. The light guide 56 comprises one or more LED lightsthat are controlled by the computer 42. In some embodiments of theinvention, the light guide 56 may comprise a light tube designed totransport and/or distribute light along its length. The light tube mayhave any desired shape or form, such as for example are described inU.S. Pat. No. 3,829,675 to Mariani, issued Aug. 13, 1974; U.S. Pat. No.4,765,701 to Cheslak, issued Aug. 23, 1988; U.S. Pat. No. 5,799,124 toZorn et al., issued Aug. 25, 1998; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,840,655 to Shen,issued Jan. 11, 2005, which are hereby incorporated by reference intheir entirety. As will be described in more detail below, the lightguide 56 is used as a visual cue to direct a user to place his hand 46below the fluid outlet 34 to receive fluid therefrom.

The operation of the fluid dispensing device 10 will now be describedwith reference to FIGS. 1 and 4 to 7. Before a user approaches thedevice 10, to conserve energy the device 10 may enter a standby modewherein limited graphics are displayed. When a user approaches, the useris detected by the cameras 14 and this information is communicated tothe computer 42. The computer 42 then causes the mirror 12 to display aset of icons, including the water icon 48, the soap icon 50, the handsanitizer icon 52, and the animated hand icon 54, as shown in FIG. 1.The mirror 12 may also display a greeting message, or the device 10 mayemit an audible greeting or other sound to draw the user's attention tothe mirror 12.

The animated hand icon 54 provides a visual cue to assist the user intouchlessly operating the device 10. In particular, the hand icon 54moves toward each of the water icon 48, the soap icon 50, and the handsanitizer icon 52. This suggests to the user that moving his hand 46toward one of the icons 48, 50, 52 will select a fluid to be dispensed.For further emphasis, the fluid icons 48, 50, 52 may glow brighter orflash as the animated hand icon 54 moves toward them. In someembodiments of the invention, the mirror 12 may also display videosdepicting how the device 10 is operated, or may provide audibleinstructions in addition to the visual cues.

Following the visual cues, the user then moves his hand 46 toward anicon 48, 50, 52 representing a fluid that is desired to be dispensed. InFIG. 4, the user's hand 46 is shown moving toward the water icon 48. Thecameras 14 track the user's movement, and relay this information to thecomputer. When the computer 42 determines that the user's hand 46 isapproaching the water icon 48, based on the images captured by thecameras 14, the computer 42 causes the water icon 48 to flash or growbrighter, indicating that it has been selected.

To assist the user in determining where the water 36 will now bedispensed from, a path of light 58 is displayed on the mirror 12 runningfrom the selected water icon 48 to the bottom edge of the mirror 12, asis shown in FIG. 5. The light guide 56 also lights up, so that acontinuous light path 58 is formed running from the water icon 48 to thefluid outlet 34. Preferably, the entire light path 58 does not light upsimultaneously, but instead lights up gradually beginning near the watericon 48 and extending downwards toward the fluid outlet 34. Thissimulates water 36 flowing from the water icon 48 to the fluid outlet34, and provides a visual cue prompting the user to place his hand 46below the fluid outlet 34. In some embodiments of the invention, themirror 12 may also display a video showing where the user's hand 46should be placed.

The proximity sensor 44 detects when the user's hand 46 is placed belowthe fluid outlet 34, and relays this information to the computer 42. Thecomputer 42 then causes the electronically operated valve mechanism 40to open, causing the water 36 to flow through the spout body 16 and ontothe user's hand 46, as shown in FIG. 5. When the user's hand 46 is movedaway from the fluid outlet 34, the proximity sensor 44 again relays thisinformation to the computer 42, which stops the flow of water 36 byclosing the electronically operated valve mechanism 40.

The user may then select a different fluid to be dispensed. For example,the user may select soap 24 by moving his hand 46 toward the soap icon50, as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments of the invention, the mirror12 may prompt the user to dispense soap 24 after water 36 has beendispensed, by flashing the soap icon 50 or by moving the animated handicon 54 toward the soap icon 50.

Once the user selects the soap icon 50, the computer 42 causes themirror 12 and light guide 56 to create a light path 58 between the soapicon 50 and the fluid outlet 34, as shown in FIG. 7. This draws theuser's attention from the selected soap icon 50 to the fluid outlet 34,and prompts the user to place his hand 46 below the fluid outlet 34.When the user's hand 46 is placed below the fluid outlet 34, theproximity sensor 44 relays this information to the computer 42. Thecomputer 42 then activates the electrically powered discharge mechanismof the soap dispenser 20, which discharges an allotment of soap 24through the soap discharge line 26, out the soap outlet 28 and onto theuser's hand 46.

To rinse his hand 46, the user can dispense more water 36 by followingthe procedure as described above. The user can also select handsanitizer to be dispensed by moving his hand 46 toward the handsanitizer icon 52, in much the same way as for water 36 and soap 24. Insome instances the device 10 may prompt a user to select the handsanitizer icon 52, for example after the user has washed his hand 46with water 36 and soap 24. This may be done by flashing the handsanitizer icon 52 or through other visual and/or audible cues.

Optionally, the light path 58 is color coded based on the fluid that hasbeen selected, and may for example use blue light for water 36, whitelight for soap 24, and green light for hand sanitizer.

A fluid dispensing device 10 in accordance with a second preferredembodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS. 8 to 11, wherein likenumerals are used to represent like components. The device 10 isgenerally similar to that shown in FIGS. 1 to 7, but with a modifieddesign. In particular, the device 10 is shaped like a curved tablet,with an outwardly projecting dispensing portion 60 that extends over thesink 18. The dispensing portion 60 has a similar function to the spoutbody 16 of the previous embodiment, and provides a conduit for carryingfluids to a fluid outlet 34 positioned over the sink 18. Like the spoutbody 16 of the previously described embodiment, the dispensing portion60 has a light guide 56 which is configured to provide a path of light58 from the mirror 12 to the fluid outlet 34 when a fluid is selectedfor dispensing.

The mirror 12 is generally similar to that described in the previousembodiment, and is configured to display a number of icons 62representing different fluids that can be dispensed and other graphics64 and information. In addition to a camera 14, the device 10 alsoincorporates a motion sensor 66 to assist in detecting hand 46 motionduring touchless operation of the device 10.

The device 10 is operated using the same general principles as describedabove. In particular, icons 62 representing different fluids such aswater 36, soap 24, and hand sanitizer are selected by a user by movinghis hand 46 toward the corresponding icon 62. The camera 14 and motionsensor 66 detect the hand 46 motion and position, and relay thisinformation to the computer 42. The computer 42 then causes the mirror12 and light guide 56 to illuminate a path of light 58 from the selectedicon 62 to the fluid outlet 34. The selected fluid is then dispensedfrom the fluid outlet 34.

Unlike the previously described embodiment, wherein the spout body 16has a similar shape to a traditional faucet, the embodiment of theinvention shown in FIGS. 8 to 11 does not closely resemble anytraditional or well-known hand cleaning equipment. As such, the path oflight 58 created by the light guide 56 and mirror 12 may be particularlyadvantageous for aiding a user in the operation of this embodiment ofthe invention, as well as for other embodiments having unusual ornon-traditional designs.

Optionally, the dispensing portion 60 of the device 10 may incorporateseveral different fluid outlets 34, including for example a separateoutlet 34 for each fluid that can be dispensed by the device 10. Thismay be advantageous where the fluids require outlets 34 having differentsizes and shapes, and for preventing unwanted mixing of the fluids. Whenmultiple fluid outlets 34 are used, the dispensing portion 60 canincorporate multiple light guides 56 so as to be able to provide a pathof light 58 to each of the outlets 34 when the corresponding fluid isselected for dispensing. The use of light guides 56 may be particularlyadvantageous in embodiments of the invention having multiple fluidoutlets 34, by allowing users to easily determine which of severaloutlets 34 the selected fluid will be dispensed from.

It will be understood that, although various features of the inventionhave been described with respect to one or another of the embodiments ofthe invention, the various features and embodiments of the invention maybe combined or used in conjunction with other features and embodimentsof the invention as described and illustrated herein.

It is to be appreciated that the term “fluid” as used herein is intendedto refer broadly to liquids, gels, creams, foams, and other flowablesubstances. The device of the present invention is not limited todispensing water 36, soap 24, and hand sanitizer, but could beconfigured to dispense any other fluids as may be desired, such astoothpaste, moisturizer, mouth wash, or shaving foam. The device neednot dispense water 36, soap 24, or hand sanitizer, but could dispenseother fluids instead.

The mirror 12 could be configured to display any desired graphics,images, videos, or information, and is not limited to the specificimages and graphics as have been described above. For example, themirror 12 could display other information such as weather, newsheadlines, e-mail, advertisements and the like. The device 10 could alsoincorporate selectable icons that cause a predetermined sequence offluids to be dispensed. For example, the mirror 12 could be configuredto display an icon that, when selected, causes the device 10 to dispensewater 36 for several seconds, allowing the user to wet his hands 46, andthen discharges an allotment of soap 24. The user could then be given apredetermined amount of time to scrub his hands 46 before water 36 isagain dispensed for rinsing. The mirror 12 may furthermore be configuredto display a timer to assist in proper hand washing duration.

The mirror 12 may incorporate a selectable icon which permits thetemperature of dispensed water 36 to be controlled. For example,selecting a temperature control icon (which could be depicted as athermometer) could cause the mirror 12 to display a graphic depicting arange of temperatures. By moving his hand 46 toward the desiredtemperature, the user could set the temperature of the water 36 that isdispensed.

The device 10 may also be programmable so that a user can set uppersonalized options. For example, each user in a household may havetheir own selectable icon wherein parameters such as sequence, timing,and temperature of dispensed fluids are set based on the user'spreferences. The device 10 may be programmable directly using thetouchless interface, or may be programmable remotely using other devicessuch as a personal computer or smart phone. The device 10 may beconnected to the internet and other devices by wired or wirelessconnection, including for example through Ethernet cables, USBconnectors, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. In some embodiments, the device 10 maybe capable of running and/or interacting with mobile applications andthe like.

In some embodiments of the invention, the mirror 12 displays aninformation icon, which when selected causes the mirror to displayinformation about the device 10. For example, the mirror 12 may beconfigured to display information about the soap 24 and hand sanitizerthat is dispensed by the device 10, such as their brand name andchemical composition. The device 10 may also be configured to displaythe volume of soap 24 and hand sanitizer that is present in therespective reservoirs, which could be used for example by custodialstaff to determine whether the reservoirs need to be refilled. Thedevice 10 may also display the amount of soap 24 and hand sanitizer thatis dispensed with each activation of the respective dischargemechanisms, and may allow a user to adjust these amounts. The device 10may also display the water 36 flow speed, and allow the user to adjustthis speed.

It is to be appreciated that the device 10 need not include a proximitysensor 44, and could instead simply dispense the selected fluid afterthe appropriate icon has been selected. The device 10 could also use asingle camera 14, or could incorporate more than two cameras 14.

It is to be appreciated that the fluid dispensing device 10 need nothave the particular construction and appearance as has been shown in theexemplary embodiments. Rather, any alternate construction that allowsfluid to be touchlessly dispensed and which provides appropriate visualcues, such as selectable icons 62 and a light path 58, could be usedinstead.

It is to be understood that the device 10 need not use the particularGraphical User Interface that has been depicted and described. Rather,any suitable GUI that permits a user to select the desired fluids to bedispensed could be used instead.

In addition to the components that have been specifically describedabove, the device 10 could also incorporate additional components suchas vanity lights, speakers, microphones, and the like to provide furtherenhanced functionality. In some embodiments of the invention, the device10 is capable of accepting voice commands in one or more languages. Insome embodiments of the invention the device 10 is capable of facialrecognition, and can adjust its settings based on the preferences of arecognized user. The device 10 may also be capable of estimating thesize of a user's hands 46 based on the images captured by the camera 14,and adjust the amount of soap 24 or hand sanitizer that is dispensedaccordingly. In some embodiments, the device 10 may recognize improperhand washing techniques, and provide suggestions for improving techniquethrough videos, animation, or the like. In some embodiments of theinvention, the computer 42 may be configured to recognize different handgestures, such as waving, thumbs up, and pointing, and perform differentfunctions based on the gesture that is detected.

The light guide 56 could have any desired form, and could be made fromany appropriate materials that can illuminate to provide a light path58. For example, the light guide 56 could be formed as a continuous,flat LED light. Alternatively, the light guide 56 could be in the formof a tube, or any other desired three-dimensional shape. The light guide56 could also be formed by a series of spaced LED lights rather than onecontinuous light. In some embodiments of the invention, the light guide56 is formed by a flexible OLED display which shows animated graphics.Such a light guide 56 may, for example, display an animated steam offlowing water as a light path 58. In some embodiments, the light path 58is provided by the light guide 56 only, and not by the mirror 12. Inother embodiments, the mirror 12 and light guide 56 are integrated asone continuous display.

While the fluid dispensing device 10 has been described as beinginstalled in a bathroom, it is to be appreciated that the device 10could be installed in any desired location.

A fluid dispensing device 10 in accordance with a third preferredembodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 12, wherein like numeralsare used to represent like components. The device 10 is generallysimilar to that shown in FIGS. 1 to 7, but with a modified design. Inparticular, the electronic mirror 12 is shaped to wrap around the sidesof the outwardly projecting spout body 16. This allows the electronicmirror 12 to sit closer to the sink 18 and, thus, is more accessible forusers with a below-average height, such as children.

The electronic mirror 12 displays a number of icons 62, which are usedto select fluids to be dispensed, as in the previously describedembodiments. In addition to water 36, soap 24, and hand sanitizer, thedevice 10 may dispense various additional gels and liquids, such asshaving foam or moisturizer. The electronic mirror 12 may also displayadditional information, such as the weather and time.

Optionally, the spout body 16 may be a permanently installed faucet,with the electronic mirror 12 detachably mounted thereto. The electronicmirror 12 may communicate with the spout body 16 via wired or wirelessconnections. The soap dispenser 20 and hand sanitizer dispenser 22 (notshown) may optionally be located in the cabinet 68 below the sink 18, orbehind the electronic mirror 12. The electronic mirror 12 may operateusing batteries, or may be wired to an external power source. In someembodiments, the electronic mirror 12 may be powered by overhead lightusing solar panels.

A fluid dispensing device 10 in accordance with a fourth preferredembodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 13, wherein like numeralsare used to represent like components. The device 10 is generallysimilar to that shown in FIG. 12, modified for use in a shower 70. Inthis embodiment of the invention, the spout body 16 is positioned nearthe top of the electronic mirror 12, and is configured to produce adownward spray of water 36 onto a user standing in the shower 70.

The device 10 has a water-tight construction, to prevent splashed water36 and steam from short circuiting the device 10. For improved safety,the device 10 preferably operates at a low voltage.

In addition to water 36, the device 10 may dispense other fluids such asshampoo, body wash, and conditioner. Icons 62 may be used to select thefluid to be dispensed, as well as for selecting water 36 temperature andpressure. The device 10 may also be configured to play music or radio.

The electronic mirror 12, as shown in FIG. 13, can be provided to bedetachably mounted about the faucet body 16, and may be used in aninverted condition so as to serve as an electronic mirror about acomplementarily sized faucet body 16 in FIG. 12, with suitableadjustment of the location of the icons 62 on its electronic mirror.

A fluid dispensing device 10 in accordance with a fifth preferredembodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS. 14 to 17, wherein likenumerals are used to represent like components. The device 10 isgenerally similar to that shown in FIGS. 1 to 7.

The device 10 includes an electronic display 72, two sensors 74, and anoutwardly projecting spout body 16 for dispensing fluid. The device 10is wall-mounted over a sink 18. As in the previously describedembodiments, the device 10 has a computer 42, and is connected to a soapdispenser 20, a hand sanitizer dispenser 22, and a water pipe 36, whichmay, for example, be mounted at the back of the electronic display 72similarly to the arrangement shown in FIG. 2. The computer 42 controlsthe electronic display 72, as well as the dispensing of fluids such aswater 36 and soap 24 from the spout body 16, as in the previouslydescribed embodiments.

The electronic display 72 is configured to display graphics, such aswater icon 48, soap icon 50, and hand sanitizer icon 52. As in thepreviously described embodiments, the icons 48, 50 and 52 are selectedby moving the user's hand 46 towards one of the icons 48, 50 and 52. Thelocation of the user's hand 46 is detected by sensors 74, which transmitdetection data to the computer 42 for interpretation. The sensors 74 mayuse infrared, radar, time of flight, or any other suitable detectionmethod for detecting the location of the user's hand 46.

To provide further enhanced touchless control, the computer 42 isconfigured to display a movable indicator 76 on the electronic display72. The movable indicator 76 is best shown in FIG. 18 as an array ofdots having a cloud-like appearance, with the dots near the center 78 ofthe indicator 76 being larger in size than the dots at the periphery ofthe indicator 76. The computer 42 is configured to display the movableindicator 76 at a location on the electronic display 72 that tracks thelocation of the user's hand 46, so that the movable indicator 76 may beused to select and interact with the graphics displayed on theelectronic display 72. For example, when the user's hand 46 is movedupwardly, downwardly, or sideways, the movable indicator 76 moves in acorresponding direction on the electronic display 76.

The movable indicator 76 is used to provide immediate visual feedback tothe user, allowing for intuitive touchless control of the device 10while also discouraging the user from touching the electronic display72. The computer 42 is configured to only display the movable indicator76 when the user's hand 46 is determined to be within a preselected zone80 in front of the electronic display 72. The preselected zone 80 may,for example, be defined by the detection range of sensors 74.

The computer 42 is also configured to modify a visual characteristic ofthe movable indicator 76 depending on a distance of the user's hand 46from the electronic display 72. For example, in the embodiment which isshown, the number and size of the dots increases as the user's hand 46is moved closer to the electronic display 72. When the user's hand 46first enters the preselected zone 80, the movable indicator 76 comprisesa single dot, as shown in FIG. 14. As the user's hand 46 is moved closerto the electronic display 76, the size and number of dots increases toform a cloud-like effect, as shown in FIG. 15.

The appearance of the movable indicator 76, and its growth as the user'shand 46 is moved towards the display 72, provides immediate visualfeedback, so that the user intuitively understands that the device 10has detected and is tracking his or her hand 46. The user is thusdiscouraged from touching the device 10, as it is immediately obviousthat the device 10 can be controlled without physical contact.Preferably, the movable indicator 76 grows to a significant size, sothat it is highly visible to the user. Audio feedback may also be usedin conjunction with the appearance and growth of the movable indicator76, to further enhance usability.

To select a fluid to be dispensed, the user's hand 46 is moved to aposition in front of one of the icons 48, 50 or 52. This causes themovable indicator 76 to likewise move over the icon 48, 50 or 52 to beselected. FIG. 16 illustrates an example wherein the movable indicator76 has been moved over the water icon 48, to select water 36 to bedispensed from the device 10. Optionally, the movable indicator 76 maybecome semi-transparent as it moves over the icon 48, as shown in FIG.16, so that the icon 48 remains visible through the indicator 76. Theicon 48 may then light up, or otherwise change in visual appearance, toindicate that it has been selected. The device 10 then dispenses waterfrom the spout body 16, in the same manner as in the previouslydescribed embodiments.

To further discourage the user from touching the electronic display 72,the computer 42 may be configured to reduce the size of the movableindicator 76 when the user's hand 46 moves closer than an optimaldistance from the electronic display 72. This would provide feedback tothe user that his or her hand 46 should be moved further away from thedevice 10 for optimal control. As shown in FIG. 17, the computer 42 mayfurthermore be configured to display an alert 82 when the user's hand 46is placed within a preselected distance of the electronic display 72, todiscourage the user from moving his or hand 46 any closer to the display72. The alert 82 may include visual and audible warnings intended tocommunicate to the user that the device 10 should not be touched.Preferably, the device 10 cannot be operated while the alert 82 isdisplayed, to further discourage users from touching the display 72. Themovable indicator 76 may disappear when the alert 82 is displayed, sothat it is clear to the user that the device 10 cannot be operated bytouching the display 72. Other graphics, such as the icons 48, 50 and52, may also disappear.

In some embodiments of the invention, the device 10 may be configured todetect when a user touches the device 10. When a touching event isdetected, the device 10 may transmit a signal to custodial staff,indicating that the device 10 should be cleaned as soon as possible. Insome embodiments of the invention, the device 10 may display an out oforder message after a touching event is detected and until the device 10has been cleaned, to discourage other users from using the device 10 andpossibly spreading infectious agents.

The movable indicator 76 may have a tail 84 that indicates the directionof movement 92, as shown in FIG. 18. The tail 84 may be produced by atime delayed shrinking of the dots as the movable indicator 76 is moved,so that the tail 84 provides a trace of that movement. This may assistin intuitively controlling the movable indicator 76, as well asproviding a visually interesting feature that may make operation of thedevice 10 more enjoyable. The tail 84 may have a different visualappearance from the rest of the movable indicator 76, such as adifferent color, shape, density, or other visual characteristic, and mayappear longer when the movable indicator 76 is moved quickly and shorterwhen the movable indicator 76 is moved slowly.

In some embodiments, the movable indicator 76 may also include avisually distinct leading edge 85 facing the direction of movement (i.e.on the opposite side as the tail 84). The leading edge 85 may, forexample, be shown as brighter, darker, or a different shape, density orcolor from the rest of the indicator 76. This may further assist in theintuitive control of the movable indicator 76, as well as being visuallyinteresting.

It is to be appreciated that the movable indicator 76 need not have thespecific form as illustrated in the preferred embodiments. Rather, themovable indicator 76 could have any shape and visual characteristicssuitable for controlling the device 10. For example, in place of dots,other graphic elements such as squares, triangles, stars, pictures, oranimations could be used. Instead of changing in size, other visualcharacteristics of the movable indicator 76 could be modified to providefeedback to the user. For example, the color or color density of theindicator 76 could change as the user's hand 46 is moved towards theelectronic display 72. The color density could also be higher at thecenter 78 of the indicator 76 than at the periphery. The movableindicator 76 preferably provides a striking visual contrast to itssurroundings, so that it is easily seen.

A first alternative movable indicator 76 having a three dimensionalbulging effect is shown in FIGS. 20 and 21. This movable indicator 76 isformed by an array of squares, which have a distorted shape so that themovable indicator 76 appears to bulge outwards from the electronicdisplay 72. To provide user feedback, the degree of distortion orbulging increases as the user's hand 46 is moved closer to theelectronic display 72. This provides a further visually interestingfeature which may make operation of the device 10 more enjoyable. Whenthe movable indicator 76 is moved over an icon 62, the shape of the icon62 may remain unchanged, so that the movable indicator 76 appears to sitabove the icon 62. Alternatively, the icon 62 could itself becomedistorted, so that the icon 62 also appears to bulge out from theelectronic display 72 when selected.

In an alternative embodiment, the electronic display 72 could beconfigured to display a regular grid pattern formed by interestinghorizontal and vertical lines. In such an embodiment, the movableindicator 76 could be displayed as a distortion of the grid, as shown inFIG. 22. The distortion could be configured to take any desired form,such as a sphere, cone, cube, or wave that appears to bulge out fromand/or into the electronic display 72.

The device 10 could be configured to also act as a mirror, as in thepreviously described embodiments. For example, the device 10 couldincorporate an optically reflective surface, or could use cameras 14 tocapture images for display on the electronic display 72. Alternatively,the device 10 could simply control the dispensing of fluids, and may notact as a mirror at all. The device 10 could furthermore be used for anynumber of purposes other than the dispensing of fluids. For example, thedevice 10 could be adapted for use in other contexts such as forcontrolling a television or a general purpose computer. In suchembodiments, components such as the spout body 16, soap dispenser 20,and hand cleaner dispenser 22 could, of course, be omitted.

Preferably, the device 10 is configured so that the movable indicator 76merely tracks the movement of the user's hand 46, and does not rely onthe detection of specific hand gestures. This allows for the use ofrelatively simply sensors 74, as well as significantly reducedprocessing power to interpret the detection signals from the sensors 74.The device 10 preferably is configured to detect and track any suitableobject placed near the electronic display 72 including, for example, acane or a prosthetic. The device 10 could, of course, be configured todetect specific hand gestures if desired.

In some embodiments, the electronic display 72 may display graphics thatdirectly interact with the movable indicator 76 to control parameterssuch as water 36 temperature and volume. For example, the electronicdisplay 72 could display a temperature slide graphic having a slidablemarker indicating the water 36 temperature. To adjust the temperature,the movable indicator 76 can be moved along the slide graphic, draggingthe slidable marker to the desired temperature. The electronic display72 could also display a rotatable tap graphic that would appear torotate when the movable indicator 76 is placed over the tap graphic andthe user's hand 46 is turned. This would simulate the turning of amanually operated water tap, and could be used to control the volume ofwater 36 that is dispensed.

A fluid dispensing device 10 in accordance with a sixth preferredembodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, wherein likenumerals are used to represent like components. The device 10 isgenerally similar to that shown in FIGS. 8 to 11.

The device 10 incorporate a one-way mirror 86, with an electronicdisplay 72 positioned behind the one-way mirror 86. The one-way mirror86 is configured to reflect some light and allow some light to passthrough. This permits the one-way mirror 86 to provide an opticalreflection while also allowing graphics displayed on the electronicdisplay 72 to be visible through the one-way mirror 86.

In particular, when the electronic display 72 is dark and the areaaround the device 10 is bright, there is little to no light that passesfrom the electronic display 72 through the one-way mirror 86. A userstanding in front of the device 10 under such conditions will thereforeprimarily see his or her reflection in the one-way mirror 86. When aportion of the electronic display 72 is sufficiently lit up, such as todisplay an icon 62, the light from the icon 62 becomes visible to theuser. By maintaining most of the electronic display 72 dark, whiledisplaying bright icons 62 or other graphics in limited areas, thedevice 10 is able to provide both an optical reflection as well asdisplay graphics such as selectable icons 62.

The device 10 may be operated in much the same way as the previouslydescribed embodiments. In particular, by placing the user's hand 46 nearan icon 62, the icon 62 can be selected. By selecting icons 62, thedispensing of fluids such as water 36 and soap 24 can be controlled. Theuse of the one-way mirror 86 to provide an optical reflection permitsthe device 10 to act as a mirror, without requiring cameras 14 and theprocessing resources that would otherwise be required to electronicallyproduce a mirror-like image on the electronic display 72.

A fluid dispensing device 10 in accordance with a seventh preferredembodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, wherein likenumerals are used to represent like components. The device 10 isidentical to that shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, with the exception thatthere is a gap 88 between the one-way mirror 86 and the electronicdisplay 72. This gap 88 produces an effect wherein the graphic elementsdisplayed on the electronic display 72, such as icons 62, appear to bespaced behind the one-way mirror 86. As such, users intuitivelyunderstand that they are unable to physically touch the icons 62, andare thus discouraged from touching the one-way mirror 86.

Furthermore, this configuration of the device 10 produces an effectwherein the user's hand 46, when positioned at a particular location infront of the one-way mirror 86, produces a reflection 90 that appears,to the user, to contact or intersect with the icon 62. This is shown inFIG. 26. The user is thus encouraged to place his or her hand 46 at thislocation, providing an intuitive means by which to select icons 62 andcontrol the device 10. The icon 62 preferably gets brighter or otherwisechanges in visual appearance when selected, to provide feedback to theuser that his or her hand 46 has been placed at the correct location.

In some embodiments of the invention, the electronic display 72 may beconfigured to provide a visual indication that the user's reflection 90is used for controlling the device 10. For example, when the user'sreflection 90 intersects the plane of the electronic display 72, thedisplay 72 may be configured to produce a visual effect, such as aglowing spot or light trail that follows the motion of the reflection90. The effect may, for example, be similar to the movable indicator 76described in the previous embodiments. The electronic display 72 couldalso display an animated ripple effect, so it appears that thereflection 90 is moving through water, for example.

The electronic display 72 may also display icons 62 or other graphicsthat can be manipulated by the user's reflection 90. For example, theelectronic display 72 may display a rotatable dial graphic forcontrolling water 36 temperature. The dial graphic may be rotated toselect the desired water 36 temperature by placing the reflected hand 90over the dial graphic, so it appears to be grasping the dial, and thenturning the user's hand 46 so that the reflection 90 appears to turn thedial. In some embodiments, the electronic display 72 may displaygraspable graphics that the user can move using reflection 90.

While the device 10 has been described above as for controlling thedispensing of fluids such as water 36 and soap 24, it is to beappreciated that the device 10 could be adapted for any number of otheruses, such as controlling a general purpose computer or a television, orfor any other purpose where touchless control may be used.

In some embodiments of the invention, the device 10 may be configured todisplay advertisements, artwork, or pictures when not in use. When auser approaches the device 10, the artwork may disappear and be replacedwith a graphical user interface. In embodiments where a number ofdevices 10 are arranged side-by-side, such as in public washrooms, eachdevice 10 could be configured to display a different part of theartwork, so that a single, large reproduction of the artwork isprominently displayed across the entire set of devices 10.

Reference is made to FIGS. 27 to 33 showing a fluid dispensing device 10in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the invention. As with theother embodiments, similar reference numerals are used to refer tosimilar elements. The fluid dispensing device 10 includes a spout body16 which is mounted to a wall 100 to extend horizontally from the wall.Below the spout body 16, a basin or sink 18 is provided. The wall 100 isshown as supporting an optional mirror 12 which may be merely aconventional mirror that reflects an image of the user in front of themirror.

In FIG. 27, the fluid dispensing device 10 is schematically illustratedto include a soap dispenser 20, a disinfectant or hand sanitizerdispenser 22 and a water dispenser 35. The soap dispenser 20 has areservoir 220 containing soap 24 and an electrically powered dischargemechanism as in the form of a pump 21 to pump an allotment of the soap24 via a soap discharge line 26 through the spout body 16 to out a soapoutlet 28 on the spout body 16.

The hand sanitizer dispenser 22 likewise has a reservoir 222 containinga hand sanitizer fluid and an electrically powered discharge mechanismin the form of a pump 23 operable to pump an allotment of the handsanitizer via a hand sanitizer discharge line 30 through the spout body16 to a hand sanitizer outlet 32 on the spout body 16. The waterdispenser 35 includes a supply of pressurized water 36, a water pipe 38and an electronically operated valve mechanism 40 that controls the flowof water through via water pipe 38 through the spout body 16 to a wateroutlet 34 on the spout body 16. Various sensors schematically indicatedas 74 on FIG. 27 are provided to sense the location of a user's handsrelative to the spout body 16 and its outlets 28, 32 and 34.

The discharge device 10 includes an electronic controller 102 and apower source 104. The controller 102 is schematically shown to becoupled to the sensors 74, to the soap dispenser 20, to the handsanitizer dispenser 22 and to the water valve mechanism 40 so as tocontrol the operation of the fluid dispensing device 10 to suitablydischarge the water, the soap and the hand sanitizer. In operation ofthe fluid dispensing device 10 as shown in FIG. 27, a user's hands areto be placed underneath the spout body 16 at selected locations toselectively activate the dispensing of the water dispenser 35, the soapdispenser 20 or the hand sanitizer dispenser 22 depending upon therelative location of the user's hands as sensed by the sensor 74. Excesswater, soap or sanitizer may pass downwardly past the user's hands to bereceived by the sink 18.

Reference is made to FIGS. 28, 29 and 30 showing merely the spout body16 of the fluid dispensing device 10 of FIG. 27. The spout body 16includes an elongate spout tube 110 extending about a straightlongitudinal axis 111 from a rear proximate end 112 where the spout tube110 is secured to the wall 100 to a first distal end 113. At theproximate end 112, the spout body 16 includes an enlarged diametersupport flange 114. The elongate spout tube 110 is shown as beingcylindrical of a constant radius. At the distal end 113, an end face 115is shown which is planar and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 111.

A water discharge tube 116 extends downwardly from the spout tube 110proximate the distal end 113 of the spout tube 110. The water tube 116ends at the water outlet 34 providing the water outlet 34 to be directeddownwardly.

A soap tube 118 extends radially from the spout tube 110 spacedlongitudinally rearwardly from the water tube 116 and on the right sideof the spout tube 110. Preferably, the soap tube 118 is directedradially towards the right from the longitudinal axis 111. The soap tube118 ends at the soap outlet 28.

A sanitizer tube 120 is provided on the spout tube 110 spacedlongitudinally rearwardly from the soap tube 118 and on the left side ofthe spout tube 110. Preferably, the sanitizer tube 120 is directed toextend towards the left radially from the longitudinal axis 111. Thesanitizer tube 120 ends at the hand sanitizer outlet 32.

The spout tube 110 is provided with a water visual indicator 117proximate the water tube 116 which is visible to a user in front of thespout body 16. Similarly, a soap visual indicator 119 is provided on thespout tube 110 proximate to the soap tube 118 visible to a user in frontof the spout body 16 and a sanitizer visual indicator 121 is provided onthe spout tube 110 proximate the sanitizer tube 120 and visible to auser in front of the spout body 16.

The water visual indicator 117 is preferably provided on an uppersurface of the spout tube 110 above the water tube 118 proximate thedistal end 113 of the spout tube 110. The soap visual indicator 119 ispreferably provided on the right side of the spout tube 110 above thesoap tube 118. The sanitizer visual indicator 121 is preferably providedon the left side of the spout tube 110 above the sanitizer tube 120.

The flange 114 includes a forwardly directed annular forward surface 140which is shown to carry the sensors 74 better shown on FIG. 28 ascomprising a water sensor 141, a soap sensor 142 and a sanitizer sensor143. The water sensor 141 is located vertically below the longitudinalaxis 111 centered on the spout tube 110 as seen from the front. The soapsensor 142 is provided to the right side of the spout tube 110 at anangular position to the right of the water sensor 141. The sanitizersensor 143 is provided to the left of the spout tube 110 at an angularposition to the left from the water sensor 141. Each of the water sensor141, the soap sensor 142 and the sanitizer sensor 143 may comprise oneor more sensors which have a capability to sense individually orcooperatively the presence and location of a user and the user's handsrelative to the spout body 16. Each of the sensors preferably comprise atime of flight sensor.

Operation of the fluid dispensing device 10 is now described withreference to FIGS. 31, 32 and 33 showing the spout body 16 as in FIG. 30as seen in pictorial view from the front end above, however, with auser's hand 46 positioned in different positions relative to the spoutbody 16 which selective positioning of the user's hand 46 as sensed bythe time of flight sensors 141, 142 and 143 identify the hand 46 asbeing in preselected zones relative to the water, soap and sanitizeroutlets that an appropriate one of the water, soap and sanitizerdispensers is activated by the controller 102 to dispense the respectivefluid onto the user's hand 46.

FIG. 31 illustrates the user's hand 46 disposed underneath the wateroutlet 34 within a preselected zone relative to the water outlet 34. InFIG. 31, the location of the user's hand 46 within the predeterminedzone relative the water outlet 34 is determined by the time of flightsensors 141, 142 and 143 but most notably by the time of flight watersensor 141 which preferably is specifically calibrated so as toaccurately identify when the user's hand 46 is within the preselectedzone underneath and in proximity to the water dispenser 34 that waterdispensed from the outlet 34 will be received on the user's hand 46.

FIG. 32 illustrates the user's hand 46 within a preselected zonerelative to the soap dispenser outlet 28 as determined by the sensors141, 142 and 143 and, most notably, by the time of flight soap sensor142 which is preferably particularly calibrated to accurately identifywhen the user's hand 46 is within the preselected zone underneath and inproximity to the soap outlet 28 that soap dispensed from the soap outletbe received on the user's hand.

FIG. 33 shows the user's hand 46 within a preselected zone relative tothe sanitizer dispenser 34. The location of the user's hand 46 in thepreselected zone relative to the sanitizer dispenser 32 is determined bythe time of flight sensors 141, 142 and 143 and, most notably, by thesanitizer sensor 143 which is calibrated to accurately identify when theuser's hand 46 is within the predetermined zone underneath and inproximity to the sanitizer outlet 32 such that the sanitizer dispensedfrom the sanitizer outlet 32 will be received on the user's hand.

As can be seen on FIG. 30, the water outlet 34 is located longitudinallyof the spout tube 110 close to the front distal end 113 of the spoutbody 16 directed vertically downward located centered on thelongitudinal axis 111 of the spout tube 110. The soap outlet 28 isdisposed longitudinally rearwardly from the water outlet 34 and on theright side of the spout body 16. The sanitizer outlet 32 is locatedlongitudinally rearwardly of the soap outlet 28 and on the left side ofthe spout body 16. As seen in a comparison of FIGS. 31, 32 and 33, therelative longitudinal location on the spout tube 110, that is, relativethe longitudinal axis 111, as well as the relative lateral location onthe spout tube 110, that is, on the center to the right or to the leftof the spout tube 110 are used to distinguish the locations of thepreselected zones in which the user's hand 46 must be located so as toactivate dispensing of the respective fluids.

The present applicant has appreciated that merely the relative differentlocations of the respective water discharge outlet 34, the soapdischarge outlet 28 and the sanitizer discharge outlet 32 provideadequate information for a user to intuitively understand that bylocating a hand at a relative position at each outlet that the fluiddispensing device 10 will then appropriately dispense one of the threefluids, that is, water, soap or sanitizer. The relative positionsinclude positions located laterally relative a vertical center plane 300shown on FIG. 34, that is, laterally centered, or to the left or rightof the spout body 16 and its vertical center plane 300. The relativepositions include positions located longitudinally relative thelongitudinal axis 111, that is, preferably at an appropriatelongitudinal position forwardly and rearwardly relative the longitudinalaxis 111. The visual indicators 117, 119 and 121 are preferred to assista user understand the locations to place the user's hands, however, theseparate visual indicators 117, 119 and 121 are not necessary.

As a first level of providing a visual indicator, each of the water tube116, the soap tube 118 and the sanitizer tube 120 may be of a differentcolour, shape or appearance. Preferably, the water tube 116, the soaptube 118 and the sanitizer tube 120 may be of different colours. Forexample, preferably, the water tube 116 is of a colour blue, the soaptube 118 is of a colour green and the sanitizer tube 120 is of a colourred.

The visual indicia 117, 119 and 121 may merely comprise, for example, acoloured dot or other marking of the same colour as the water tube 116,the soap tube 118 or the sanitizer 120, respectively, so as to assist indrawing to a user the locations to centering and longitudinal of therespective dispenser outlets.

The visual indicia 117, 119 and 121 may include a label such as, forexample, as a text label, the word WATER for the visual indicia 117,SOAP for the visual indicia 119 and SANITIZER for the sanitizer visualindicia 121. Of course, the text label could be in any language. Ratherthan be a text label, each visual indicia could be a visual image thatmight signify, respectively, water, soap and sanitizer, for example, awave image for water, an image of large bubbles for soap and an image ofsmall bubbles for the sanitizer. The text label or visual imagepreferably will have a colour of its corresponding water tube 116, soaptube 118 or a sanitizer tube 120.

The visual indicators may be static in the sense of merely providing adifferent colour for each of the water tube 116, soap tube 118 orsanitizer tube 120 or having the visual indicia 117, 119 and 121 as acoloured spot, or text label or visual image. The visual indicators may,however, be active in the sense of providing changes during theoperation of the soap dispenser. As active indicators, each of the watervisual indicia 117, the soap visual indicia 119 and the sanitizer visualindicia 121 may include light emitting devices, most preferably, LEDswhich discharge light in a manner to assist in identifying the locationof the relative discharge outlet and in providing feedback as to whenthe user's hand 46 may be in a predetermined zone relative to each ofthe respective outlets to trigger dispensing from the relative outlet.In a preferred arrangement, for example, if the water tube 116 is acolour blue, the water visual indicia 117 may be an LED which woulddischarge the light of a blue colour when a user's hand is in thepreselected zone below the water outlet 34 suitable for dispensing ofwater. Preferably, the LED may be provided within a housing or bezelhaving a blue colour. A similar green LED light could be provided as thesoap visual indicia 119 and a similar red LED light could be provided asthe sanitizer visual indicia 121.

With an LED as the visual indicia, the LED light could be controlled tobe on when the hand 46 is in an appropriate preselected zone. The lightmay be controlled to be maintained on merely when the hand is in thepredetermined zone. The light may also be controlled to merely be onwhen the hand is in the predetermined zone and appropriate liquid isalso being dispensed. For example, in association with the soapdispenser 20 and the sanitizer dispenser 22, preferably, when a hand 46is first placed in the appropriate preselected zone, after a firstsingle dose of the soap or sanitizer is dispensed, the dispensing isstopped. The light may be solid while the user's hand is in thepreferred preselected zone initially until dispensing is stopped whenthe light would be turned off. Possibly, after dispensing is stopped, iffor a selected period of time the user's hand is maintained within thepreselected zone, then a second dose of soap would be dispensed with thelight again being on while soap is dispensed.

The preferred operation of the fluid dispensing device 10 provides foroperation to dispense one of the fluids when the user's hand is sensedto be in a preselected zone.

In addition to the preselected zone for each fluid outlet, a precursorzone may be defined through which a user's hand is to be moved to reacheach preselected zone. While the user's hand is in the precursor zonefor each outlet, then an active indicator such as an LED lamp for arespective outlet can be controlled as to be flashed while the hand isin the precursor zone and until the hand is moved into the preselectedzone. Preferably, the frequency with which the LED lamp is flashed mayincrease as the hand is moved closer toward the preselected zone.

Each of the respective outlets may have one or more passive and activevisual indicators. The visual indicators assist in helping a user tointuitively understand that the relative movement of the hand relativeto the spout body 16 in relation to the discharge outlets will permit auser to provide for selective dispensing of the various fluids dispensedby the fluid dispenser.

FIG. 34 shows a front view of the spout body 16 of FIG. 28, however,modified so as to show additional information displayed on the end face115 of the spout tube 110. On FIG. 34, the end face 115 provides avisual display 215 via which information may be visually displayed to auser. In FIG. 34, the end face 115 is marked with the static graphicitems comprising as text images the words “water”, “soap” and“sanitizer” with a respectively coloured graphic 217, 219 and 221adjacent each.

Preferably, the text images are of a colour corresponding to the colourof the respective water tube 116, soap tube 118 and sanitizer tube 120.Preferably, each coloured graphic 217, 219 and 221 comprises an LEDlight which will be illuminated when a user's hand is in an appropriatepreselected zone for the respective fluid to be dispensed and of therespective colour. Of course, each of the text images ‘water”, “soap”and “sanitizer” could be formed as transparent portions of the displaywhich are illuminated either constantly or merely when the respectivefluid is being dispensed. The display 215 on the end face 115 providesanother form of visual indicators which assist a user in intuitivelyunderstanding the operation of the device 10. The display 215 couldcomprise an electronic display with almost infinite messages andindicators being able to be displayed for operation and maintenance ofthe dispenser 10.

FIG. 34 also shows in front view the lateral side to side and angularseparation of the water outlet 34, the soap outlet 28 and the sanitizeroutlet 32.

Reference is made to FIGS. 35 to 37 which show as an eight embodiment ofa fluid dispenser 10 in accordance with the present invention with aspout body 16 having similarities to the spout body 16 shown in FIG. 27.However, the spout body 16 in FIG. 35 is mounted on a horizontal surfaceas to a countertop 101 at the rear of a sink 16.

The spout body 16 of FIG. 35 includes an elongate spout tube 110 whichextends along a longitudinal 111 which extends upwardly in a verticalstraight first portion 201 through a bent second portion 202 and into astraight third portion 203 that angles forwardly and upwardly to adistal end 113. A plurality of sensors 74 are provided including a timeof flight water sensor 141, soap sensor 142 and sanitizer sensor 143. Inthe embodiment of FIG. 35, the water tube 34 is located forwardly on thespout tube 110 extending vertically downwardly proximate the distal end113. The soap outlet 28 extends radially towards the right side and thesanitizer outlet 32 extends towards the left side. In the embodiment ofFIG. 35, the soap outlet 28 and the sanitizer outlet 32 are located thesame longitudinal distance rearward from the water tube 116 and therelative left to right orientation of a user's hand 46 as sensed by theappropriate sensors 141, 142 and 143 is used to determine if soap orsanitizer is to be dispensed.

In the embodiment of FIG. 35, merely a soap visual indicia 119 and asanitizer visual indicia 121 are provided. No water indicia is shown.The visual indicia 119 preferably comprises three LEDs 331, 332 and 333.The visual indicia 121 preferably comprises three LEDs 341, 342 and 343.Each of the LEDs are preferably provided in a gill-like recess 350 thatextends radially inwardly into the spout tube 110 as defined by aforwardly directed rear surface 351 and a sidewardly directed sidesurface 352. Preferably, each LED light is provided to discharge lightforwardly through the rear surface 351 when each LED lamp is activated.While not necessary, preferably each LED light is of a colour whichcorresponds to a colour provided about the respective soap tube outlet28 and sanitizer outlet 32. This configuration of the visual indicia 119and 121 is advantageous so that each is provided within the confines ofthe spout tube 110 yet direct light that can be seen by a user in frontof the spout body 16. The three LEDs 331, 332 and 333 comprising thevisual indicia 119 may be controlled by the controller so as to flash ina sequenced operation as in a manner to appear to encourage to draw auser's hand to move the hand towards the soap outlet 28. As well, theactivation of the LEDs 331, 332 and 333 can be used as to vary timeintervals between activations as to provide a visual indicator to a userthat the user's hands are to be moved towards or are in thepredetermined positions such that the soap is dispensed and/or toindicate that the soap is being dispensed. The three LEDs 341, 342 and343 comprising the visual indicia 121 for the sanitizer outlet 32 mayoperate in an analogous manner.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 35 to 37, aside from the water tube 116, noother visual indicia is provided associated with the water dischargeoutlet 34 although various visual indicators for the water could beprovided.

In FIGS. 35 to 37 as in the seventh embodiment of FIG. 27, three time offlight sensors 141, 142 and 143 are provided on an enlarged diametersupport flange 114. Of course, sensors may be suitably located at anyposition on the spout tube 16 or environment surrounding the spout tube16. As well, in both the eighth embodiment and the seventh embodiment,while time of flight sensors are preferred, many other forms of sensorsmay be used as may be useful to locate the relative positions of auser's hands relative to the spout including without limitation IRsensors and capacitive sensors.

The seventh and eighth embodiments illustrate fluid dispensing devices10 to dispense three fluids, soap, sanitizer and water and disposedabove a basin or sink 16. Of course, the fluid dispensing device 10 maybe adapted to dispense two, three, four or more different fluids fromcorresponding outlets located at different respective locations on thespout. The fluids may be selected from water, a first hand cleaningfluid, a second hand cleaning, a third hand cleaning fluid, adisinfectant or sanitizer, hand cream and drying air. Of course, almostany other flowable materials could be dispensed, and each could be afoam mixed with air.

The fluid dispensing device 10 in the seventh and eighth embodimentsshows the spout body 16 above a sink. The provision of a sink is notnecessary particularly when the fluids to be dispensed do not includewater which is typically to be dispensed in excess.

In the seventh and eighth embodiments, the water dispenser 35 issimplistically illustrated as dispensing from but a single source ofwater. It is to be appreciated that the water source may comprise asource of cold water and a source of hot water with a suitablycontrolled mixing valve to discharge water at desired temperatures. Ifdesired, user interfaces may be provided to select the temperature ofthe water.

In the seventh and eighth embodiments, the spout body 16 has preferablybeen shown as an elongate tubular member. This is not necessary. Thedispensing spout may have various other shapes including the shape ofthe spout and the other embodiments and the shape of the many diversetypical spouts provided above sinks which are known. In accordance withthe arrangements of the seventh and eighth embodiments, the relativelocation of outlets for different fluids at different locations on thespout permit a user to intuitively appreciate the operation of thedispensing device 10 by simple trial and error experimentation leadingquickly to the user's understanding as to a proper manner of operatingthe fluid dispensing device to obtain selected fluids as desired by theuser.

In the seventh embodiment a mirror 12 has been shown as part of thefluid dispensing device 10. The mirror may incorporate features of theelectronic mirror with or without a one way mirror and provide for useof features of the electronic display in accordance with the otherembodiments but in conjunction with a spout body 16 of the seventhembodiment.

Each of the first to eight embodiments teach the dispensing of variousmaterials which notably include hand cleaning fluids such as soap. Thematerials to be dispensed include foamed materials which are dischargedas a foam of a liquid admixed with air by the simultaneous passing ofthe liquid and air through a foam generator before discharge.

Although this disclosure has described and illustrated certain preferredembodiments of the invention, it is to be understood that the inventionis not restricted to these particular embodiments. Rather, the inventionincludes all embodiments which are functional, mechanical, electrical,or optical equivalents of the specific embodiments and features thathave been described and illustrated herein.

We claim:
 1. A fluid dispensing device comprising: a discharge spout; a water dispenser for dispensing water from a water outlet on the spout at a first location; a soap dispenser for dispensing soap from a soap outlet on the spout at a second location different than the first location; a hand sanitizer dispenser for dispensing hand sanitizer from a hand sanitizer outlet on the spout at a third location different than the first location and different than the second location; a sensor arrangement to sense a position of a user's hand relative to the spout and the first location, the second location, and the third location; and a controller configured to activate the water dispenser to dispense the water from the water outlet when the user's hand is sensed in a preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the water outlet, to activate the soap dispenser to dispense the soap from the soap outlet when the user's hand is sensed in a preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the soap outlet, and to activate the hand sanitizer dispenser to dispense the hand sanitizer from the hand sanitizer outlet when the user's hand is sensed in a preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the hand sanitizer outlet; wherein the spout comprises an elongate spout tube that extends in a longitudinal direction from a proximate end to a distal end, and presents a right side surface, a left side surface, and a bottom surface; wherein the water outlet is provided on a first surface selected from the group consisting of: the right side surface, the left side surface, and the bottom surface; wherein the soap outlet is provided on a second surface that is different than the first surface and is selected from the group consisting of: the right side surface, the left side surface, and the bottom surface; wherein the hand sanitizer outlet is provided on a third surface that is different than the first surface and different than the second surface and is selected from the group consisting of: the right side surface, the left side surface, and the bottom surface; wherein the sensor arrangement includes a time of flight water sensor to sense the position of the user's hand relative to the first location, a time of flight soap sensor to sense the position of the user's hand relative to the second location, and a time of flight sanitizer sensor to sense the position of the user's hand relative to the third location; and wherein the time of flight water sensor, the time of flight soap sensor, and the time of flight sanitizer sensor sense whether the user's hand is in the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the water outlet, the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the soap outlet, or the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the hand sanitizer outlet based on a relative longitudinal location and a relative lateral location of the user's hand.
 2. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the spout has an enlarged diameter support flange at the proximate end of the elongate spout tube that carries the time of flight water sensor, the time of flight soap sensor, and the time of flight sanitizer sensor; wherein the water outlet is provided on the elongate spout tube proximate the distal end; wherein the soap outlet is provided on the elongate spout tube spaced longitudinally rearwardly from the water outlet; and wherein the hand sanitizer outlet is provided on the elongate spout tube spaced longitudinally rearwardly from the water outlet.
 3. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 1, further comprising: a water visual indicator for the water outlet that is visually apparent to a user in front of the spout and identifies the first location of the water outlet; a soap visual indicator for the soap outlet that is visually apparent to the user in front of the spout, identifies the second location of the soap outlet, and is visually different than the water visual indicator; and a sanitizer visual indicator for the hand sanitizer outlet that is visually apparent to the user in front of the spout, identifies the third location of the hand sanitizer outlet, and is visually different than the water visual indicator and visually different than the soap visual indicator.
 4. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 3, further comprising: a visual display visible to the user in front of the spout; the visual display including a first colored graphic illuminated when the controller is dispensing water, a second colored graphic illuminated when the controller is dispensing soap, and a third colored graphic illuminated when the controller is dispensing hand sanitizer; the first colored graphic having a first shared visual characteristic with the water visual indicator for associating the first colored graphic with the water visual indicator; the second colored graphic having a second shared visual characteristic with the soap visual indicator for associating the second colored graphic with the soap visual indicator, the second colored graphic being visually different than the first colored graphic; the third colored graphic having a third shared visual characteristic with the sanitizer visual indicator for associating the third colored graphic with the sanitizer visual indicator, the third colored graphic being visually different than the first colored graphic and visually different than the second colored graphic.
 5. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 4, wherein: the first shared visual characteristic includes a first color; and the second shared visual characteristic includes a second color different than the first color.
 6. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 4, wherein: the first shared visual characteristic includes a first shape; and the second shared visual characteristic includes a second shape different than the first shape.
 7. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 4, wherein the visual display is on the distal end of the spout.
 8. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 3, wherein the water visual indicator comprises a light emitting device and is illuminated when the user's hand is sensed in the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the water outlet and water is being dispensed; wherein the soap visual indicator comprises a light emitting device and is illuminated when the user's hand is sensed in the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the soap outlet and soap is being dispensed; and wherein the sanitizer visual indicator comprises a light emitting device and is illuminated when the user's hand is sensed in the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the hand sanitizer outlet and hand sanitizer is being dispensed.
 9. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 8, wherein, when the user's hand is placed in the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the soap outlet, after a first dose of soap is dispensed, the dispensing of soap is stopped and the illumination of the soap visual indicator is turned off; and wherein, when the user's hand is placed in the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the hand sanitizer outlet, after a first dose of hand sanitizer is dispensed, the dispensing of hand sanitizer is stopped and the illumination of the sanitizer visual indicator is turned off.
 10. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 8, wherein the water outlet has a precursor zone through which the user's hand is to be moved to reach the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the water outlet; wherein the soap outlet has a precursor zone through which the user's hand is to be moved to reach the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the soap outlet; wherein the hand sanitizer outlet has a precursor zone through which the user's hand is to be moved to reach the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the hand sanitizer outlet; wherein the water visual indicator flashes when the user's hand is in the precursor zone for the water outlet; wherein the soap visual indicator flashes when the user's hand is in the precursor zone for the soap outlet; and wherein the sanitizer visual indicator flashes when the user's hand is in the precursor zone for the hand sanitizer outlet.
 11. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 10, wherein a frequency of the flashing of the water visual indicator increases as the user's hand is moved closer to the water outlet; wherein a frequency of the flashing of the soap visual indicator increases as the user's hand is moved closer to the soap outlet; and wherein a frequency of the flashing of the sanitizer visual indicator increases as the user's hand is moved closer to the hand sanitizer outlet.
 12. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 2, wherein the elongate spout tube extends horizontally about a straight longitudinal axis from the proximate end, where the elongate spout tube is secured to a wall, to the distal end; wherein the elongate spout tube is cylindrical of a constant radius; wherein the distal end has an end face that is planar and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; and wherein a water discharge tube extends downwardly from the elongate spout tube, the water discharge tube ending at the water outlet with the water outlet directed downwardly.
 13. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 12, wherein a soap tube extends radially from the elongate spout tube on the right side of the elongate spout tube and is directed radially towards the right from the longitudinal axis, the soap tube ending at the soup outlet; wherein a sanitizer tube extends radially from the elongate spout tube on the left side of the elongate spout tube and is directed radially towards the left from the longitudinal axis, the sanitizer tube ending at the hand sanitizer outlet; wherein the enlarged diameter support flange has a forwardly directed annular forward surface that carries the time of flight water sensor, the time of flight soap sensor, and the time of flight sanitizer sensor; and wherein the time of flight water sensor is located vertically below the longitudinal axis, the time of flight soap sensor is located to the right of the time of flight water sensor, and the time of flight sanitizer sensor is located to the left of the time of flight water sensor.
 14. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 1, further comprising: a soap visual indicia that comprises three light emitting diodes; and a sanitizer visual indicia that comprises three light emitting diodes; wherein each of the light emitting diodes of the soap visual indicia and each of the light emitting diodes of the sanitizer visual indicia are provided in a respective gill-like recess that extends radially inwardly into the elongate spout tube and is defined by a forwardly directed rear surface and a sidewardly directed side surface; and wherein each of the light emitting diodes of the soap visual indicia and each of the light emitting diodes of the sanitizer visual indicia discharge light forwardly through the rear surface of the respective gill-like recess when activated.
 15. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 14, wherein the light emitting diodes of the soap visual indicia are controlled by the controller so as to flash in a sequenced operation to signal to a user in front of the spout to move the user's hand towards the soap outlet; and wherein the light emitting diodes of the sanitizer visual indicia are controlled by the controller so as to flash in a sequenced operation to signal to the user in front of the spout to move the user's hand towards the hand sanitizer outlet.
 16. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 14, wherein the spout is mounted on a horizontal surface of a sink; and wherein the elongate spout tube extends upwardly from the horizontal surface in a vertical straight first portion through a bent second portion and into a straight third portion that angles forwardly and upwardly to the distal end.
 17. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 2, further comprising: a water visual indicator for the water outlet that is visually apparent to a user in front of the spout and identifies the first location of the water outlet; a soap visual indicator for the soap outlet that is visually apparent to the user in front of the spout, identifies the second location of the soap outlet, and is visually different than the water visual indicator; a sanitizer visual indicator for the hand sanitizer outlet that is visually apparent to the user in front of the spout, identifies the third location of the hand sanitizer outlet, and is visually different than the water visual indicator and visually different than the soap visual indicator; and a visual display visible to the user in front of the spout; the visual display including a first colored graphic illuminated when the controller is dispensing water, a second colored graphic illuminated when the controller is dispensing soap, and a third colored graphic illuminated when the controller is dispensing hand sanitizer; the first colored graphic having a first shared visual characteristic with the water visual indicator for associating the first colored graphic with the water visual indicator; the second colored graphic having a second shared visual characteristic with the soap visual indicator for associating the second colored graphic with the soap visual indicator, the second colored graphic being visually different than the first colored graphic; the third colored graphic having a third shared visual characteristic with the sanitizer visual indicator for associating the third colored graphic with the sanitizer visual indicator, the third colored graphic being visually different than the first colored graphic and visually different than the second colored graphic.
 18. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 2, further comprising: a water visual indicator for the water outlet that is visually apparent to a user in front of the spout and identifies the first location of the water outlet; a soap visual indicator for the soap outlet that is visually apparent to the user in front of the spout, identifies the second location of the soap outlet, and is visually different than the water visual indicator; and a sanitizer visual indicator for the hand sanitizer outlet that is visually apparent to the user in front of the spout, identifies the third location of the hand sanitizer outlet, and is visually different than the water visual indicator and visually different than the soap visual indicator; wherein the water visual indicator comprises a light emitting device and is illuminated when the user's hand is sensed in the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the water outlet and water is being dispensed; wherein the soap visual indicator comprises a light emitting device and is illuminated when the user's hand is sensed in the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the soap outlet and soap is being dispensed; wherein the sanitizer visual indicator comprises a light emitting device and is illuminated when the user's hand is sensed in the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the hand sanitizer outlet and hand sanitizer is being dispensed; wherein the water outlet has a precursor zone through which the user's hand is to be moved to reach the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the water outlet; wherein the soap outlet has a precursor zone through which the user's hand is to be moved to reach the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the soap outlet; wherein the hand sanitizer outlet has a precursor zone through which the user's hand is to be moved to reach the preselected zone underneath and in proximity to the hand sanitizer outlet; wherein the water visual indicator flashes when the user's hand is in the precursor zone for the water outlet; wherein the soap visual indicator flashes when the user's hand is in the precursor zone for the soap outlet; wherein the sanitizer visual indicator flashes when the user's hand is in the precursor zone for the hand sanitizer outlet; wherein a frequency of the flashing of the water visual indicator increases as the user's hand is moved closer to the water outlet; wherein a frequency of the flashing of the soap visual indicator increases as the user's hand is moved closer to the soap outlet; and wherein a frequency of the flashing of the sanitizer visual indicator increases as the user's hand is moved closer to the hand sanitizer outlet.
 19. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 2, further comprising: a soap visual indicia that comprises three light emitting diodes; and a sanitizer visual indicia that comprises three light emitting diodes; wherein each of the light emitting diodes of the soap visual indicia and each of the light emitting diodes of the sanitizer visual indicia are provided in a respective gill-like recess that extends radially inwardly into the elongate spout tube and is defined by a forwardly directed rear surface and a sidewardly directed side surface; and wherein each of the light emitting diodes of the soap visual indicia and each of the light emitting diodes of the sanitizer visual indicia discharge light forwardly through the rear surface of the respective gill-like recess when activated.
 20. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 19, wherein the light emitting diodes of the soap visual indicia are controlled by the controller so as to flash in a sequenced operation to signal to a user in front of the spout to move the user's hand towards the soap outlet; and wherein the light emitting diodes of the sanitizer visual indicia are controlled by the controller so as to flash in a sequenced operation to signal to the user in front of the spout to move the user's hand towards the hand sanitizer outlet. 